Black Caps win New Zealanders' hearts despite missing out on the Cup

With a whirlwind campaign of highs and lows, the Black Caps have cemented themselves into the hearts of New Zealanders following a valiant effort to reach the prestigious Cricket World Cup final.

Throughout last night's big match in Melbourne, the Black Caps proved that they upheld their professionalism and played with class despite alleged "sledging" by some of their Australian counterparts.

Spectators quickly took to social media with disgust, comparing the photo of the gesture where Black Cap Grant Elliot is helping South Africa's Dale Steyn up after their loss to New Zealand in the semi-final, to last night's image of Australians Brad Haddin and James Faulkner seemingly taunting Grant Elliot for being dismissed.

Black Cap captain Brendon McCullum told media post-match that, "I'm really proud of the guys. I thought the way that we played throughout this tournament, the brand of cricket that we've played, the way we've entertained people and I guess left nothing out there in terms of the character and attitude on the field, you know, I think it's been one hell of a ride and something that we'll remember for the rest of our lives."